A Victorian soldier, fresh home from the Zulu wars, went on patrol in Sainsbury in Kiln Lane, Epsom, last week.
The soldier was a reminder to shoppers both young and old of the work being done by the Bourne Hall museum to bring history alive.
Both children and adults were fascinated to learn more about life in the army 140 years ago, the year that Sainsbury’s was founded.
The soldier will be on duty in an empty shop in the Ashley Centre, Epsom, on August 19 to tell children about the life of a soldier in the British Army in Victorian times and the battle of Rorkes Drift where more Victoria Crosses were won than in any other engagement.
Museum staff have taken over the shop for a series of events with a historical twist from August 18 to August 27.
The events include life in Epsom during World War 1, the life of a tommy, life in Roman Ewell, horrible Epsom - a history talk about murders, riots and ghosts, and life during World War 2.
David Brooks from the museum who has traced his family back to Tudor times will be giving help and advice on how to track down your family history and on August 26 there will be a valuations road show from 10am to 5pm when exerts will study stamps, banknotes, coins, medals, postcards and old photos for a donation of £1 per item which will go to the Children’s Trust.
For more details call Bourne Hall Museum on 020 8394 1734 or visit www.theashleycentre.co.uk.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here